17 Children Killed in Attack on Darfur Displacement Camp

A displacement centre in El Fasher, North Darfur (file).

At least 17 children, including a newborn just seven days old, have reportedly been killed in an attack on the Dar al-Arqam Displacement Centre in El Fasher, North Darfur, early Saturday morning.

The UN children’s agency, UNICEF, said it had received reports that the attack occurred at a facility hosting families displaced by the ongoing conflict in the region. Another 21 children were reportedly injured.

According to media reports, up to 60 people were killed in Saturday’s assault by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been fighting the Sudanese army since April 2023. The conflict has triggered a humanitarian catastrophe, leaving tens of millions facing acute hunger.

“This devastating attack on children and families who were already displaced and seeking safety is an outrage,” said Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director. “Killing and injuring children are grave violations of their rights, and attacks on civilians in places meant to offer safety and refuge are unconscionable.”

El Fasher has been under siege by the RSF for more than 500 days, with severe restrictions on movement, access to food, water, and medical care. Civilians, including large numbers of children, have endured repeated bombardments and worsening living conditions.

Several areas in North Darfur have been suffering from famine for months. Food security and child nutrition have reached catastrophic levels, with families surviving on minimal rations. Cases of severe acute malnutrition among children are rising sharply. Health facilities report a surge in preventable child deaths linked to hunger and disease.

The disruption of supply routes, looting of aid convoys, and denial of humanitarian access have made sustained relief efforts nearly impossible.

In the wake of the attack, UNICEF reiterated its calls for an immediate ceasefire, the lifting of the siege, safe passage for civilians fleeing violence, unhindered humanitarian access to affected populations, and accountability for those responsible for attacks against civilians.